Philosophical argument

Description

Students must submit an analysis (mid-term) of a philosophical argument of their choice based on a primary text from the textbook. The challenge is to find an argument that is suited for analysis (not too long) but is detailed enough to raise interesting criticisms against. An example regarding the format of a concise argument suited for the paper is Bertrand Russell’s selection from his work The Problems of Philosophy entitled “The Value of Philosophy” in the textbook (86-91). There are many interesting arguments in the textbook. Hence students should begin to work on the mid-term paper browsing through the table of contents, looking into several potential arguments before deciding which argument to select. The argument should raise interest since the analysis will provide the first part for the final paper in which students are required to respond critically with their own argument in the final paper. Note that an analysis is not a summary but a detailed examination of the structure and the constituent elements of an argument. For additional information see: “The Introduction to the Art of Constructive Criticism” (focus on critical reading and analysis only for the mid-term). The analysis itself should be brief but comprehensive, that means it needs to reflect the structure of the argument written in essay format. The assessment of the philosopher’s argument should be part of the critical response (final paper) not the analysis. The goal for the mid-term is to give a fair (objective) representation of the philosopher’s argument (also called synopsis) before critically responding. To write a good analysis and prepare for one’s own critical response considerable research work is essential. Such research work should include the following: a) reading additional writings of the respective philosopher beyond the selection in the textbook; b) study of secondary sources about the philosopher, the historical context, and his/her philosophical approach; paying specific attention to the philosophical position/argument the philosopher responds to; c) defining and understanding key terms used in the context. a)-c) should not be submitted but should inform the analysis and the bibliography. The analysis must include the following: An appropriate Title The philosopher in focus & the Primary Text: Source for the philosophical argument A brief introduction to the topic, identifying the thesis and supportive statements in the philosophical argument Critical assessment of the premises as well as the structure of the argument Analysis of the argument which offers a fair representation of the philosopher’s argument (synopsis) Conclusion A comprehensive bibliography that includes primary and secondary sources (which will be used for the critical response in the final paper) is required. Encyclopedias could be consulted to get background information on the philosopher, but they cannot be part of the bibliography. Only academically credible sources (peer-rived journal articles and book chapters) are acceptable. All other popular sources must be avoided. In-text citations are required to credit your sources. In-text citations and bibliography must adhere to MLA format. Length: 2-3 pages, double spaced, 12 point, Times New Roman font (a title page is required).